WHILE there is no cash in the coffers for a rampage through the transfer market, Dale boss Alan Buckley is keen to look for quality loan signings to bolster his squad.

After Saturday's disappointing defeat against Swansea, the second consecutive reverse, Buckley admitted he may need to look for reinforcements in key areas to get his side moving in the right direction once more.

"There is no money to pay fees for anybody, but I'd like to think there are the options that, if we can identify someone, we can do something about it," he said.

"We do need to do something about it because 15 or 16 games in we're still identifying areas in the team we need to improve. In the meantime, players who keep getting opportunities have got to do more to stake a claim."

One of those needing to do more, according to the manager, is Kevin Townson who was left out of the 16 for Saturday's clash against the Swans.

"Kevin scored two in two games, but I don't think there's been enough to his game for a while," he said. "If he gets an opportunity he's as likely to put the ball into the net as anybody. But if you're in a match like we were today you need someone's who's going to move around, hold the ball up and bring people into the game.

"I think he can do it, but all too often he doesn't and that's why he wasn't in the team today," he said.

Paul Connor's injury woes continued as he limped off after 45 minutes against City. Starting the striker, who is taking an age to recover from a damaged toe, was a calculated risk said Buckley.

"The decision to start with Connor wasn't taken lightly. He had a pain-killing injection before kick-off, but it didn't work out," he said.

"He's having a scan to see if there are any more injuries that haven't already been picked up by a normal X-ray."

Goalkeeper Neil Edwards is the only other doubt after picking up a side strain, but should be fit for the trip to Leyton Orient on Saturday.

MICKAEL Antoine-Curier will find out later this week if his stay at Spotland is being extended.

The Frenchman's month-long contract with Dale runs out at midnight on Saturday, leaving him free for selection for the match at Brisbane Road.

"I'll have a word with Mickael over the next few days to see what progress we can make," said Alan Buckley.

The 20-year-old striker has made five starts and three substitute appearances for the club since arriving last month following a short spell at Oldham Athletic. He was given the nod on Saturday, but lasted just 59 minutes before making way for Patrick McCourt.